Last week we heard that Turkey had blocked access to Twitter, the site was blocked by the Turkish government, although this week a Turkish court ruled that Twitter should be unblocked.
Now it would appear that Turkey has started to block access to YouTube, although a number of people in Turkey have already found ways around the latest blocking by the Turkish government.
The Turkish government have apparently attempted to block Internet sites in an attempt to stop people accessing telephone recordings that are reported to reveal corruption within the Turkish government.
Background on Internet Censorship in Turkey
Internet censorship in Turkey has been a contentious issue for many years. The government has frequently used its power to restrict access to various websites and social media platforms. These actions are often justified on grounds of national security, public order, or to prevent the spread of misinformation. However, critics argue that these measures are primarily aimed at stifling dissent and controlling the flow of information. The blocking of Twitter and YouTube are just the latest examples in a long history of internet censorship in the country.
And yesterday, a secret recording, which is reported to be of a high level security meeting relating to Syria has been leaked in Turkey on YouTube. This recording allegedly contains discussions among top Turkish officials about potential military operations in Syria, which has added fuel to the already volatile political climate in the country.
Public Reaction and Workarounds
The public reaction to these blocks has been overwhelmingly negative. Many Turkish citizens view these actions as an infringement on their freedom of speech and right to access information. Social media platforms like Twitter and YouTube are not just entertainment outlets; they are crucial tools for communication, activism, and journalism. The blocking of these sites has led to widespread protests and condemnation both within Turkey and internationally.
Despite the government’s efforts, many people in Turkey have found ways to circumvent these blocks. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and other anonymizing tools have become increasingly popular as they allow users to bypass government restrictions and access blocked content. Tech-savvy individuals have also been sharing tips and tricks on social media to help others regain access to these platforms.
This is the apparent reason that Turkey has now tried to block access to YouTube, although some users can apparently get around the block. The Turkish government’s attempts to control the narrative by blocking these platforms have only led to more scrutiny and criticism. International organizations and foreign governments have also weighed in, urging Turkey to respect freedom of speech and the free flow of information.
Source The Verge
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